The SNP have welcomed today's announcement that the writ for the Glasgow North East by-election will be moved for the 12th November 2009.

Commenting, campaign coordinator Stewart Hosie MP said: "The people of Glasgow North East have a date at last and the SNP is ready for the campaign.

"Labour's arrogance over this by-election has been astonishing. The writ has been delayed for Labour's convenience, leaving the constituency without an MP for 109 days as Labour shut local schools and let people down.

"It is symptomatic of Labour's treatment of this area. David Kerr has got what it takes to end 74 years of Labour rule and bring a fresh start to Glasgow North East."

SNP candidate David Kerr added: "After 74 years of Labour failure and neglect it's time for a fresh start in Glasgow North East.

"Around the constituency people are looking to the SNP as a party that is on their side and for an MP that will give them a strong voice in London and in Glasgow.

"The SNP are supporting the people of Glasgow North East through these tough times by freezing the council tax, phasing out prescription charges, taking real action on crime and investing billions in infrastructure to support local jobs while Labour let people down.

"The SNP has got what it takes for Glasgow North East."